Knowing When to Avoid LASIK

LASIK vision correction is an exciting treatment to consider because it can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, it is very important to know when to avoid LASIK, and our Washington, D.C. practice can determine whether you are a LASIK candidate. Dr. Andrew Holzman has performed more than 70,000 vision correction procedures, and as a leader in the field of ophthalmology, he can recommend a vision treatment that helps you improve your vision while maintaining your safety. If you have been considering LASIK vision correction surgery, contact our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Holzman.

Eye Conditions That Can Preclude You from LASIK

There are a number of eye conditions that can preclude a patient from LASIK. Patients suffering from persistent dry eyes may not be candidates for LASIK because the procedure could exacerbate the condition. Patients who have thin corneas are often better candidates for photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). If your vision is fluctuating - that is, if you have had to change your glasses prescription in the last year - LASIK surgery would not be recommended until your vision stabilizes. Because vision fluctuates during pregnancy and breast feeding, laser vision correction surgery would have much less predictable results for these patients, and probably would not be recommended until vision has stabilized.

There are a number of other eye conditions that can preclude you from LASIK:

Cataracts: This gradual clouding of the crystalline lens obstructs vision, and should be addressed before undergoing LASIK.

Glaucoma: Glaucoma involves high intraocular pressure (IOP) that can damage the retina and optic nerve. IOP increases during LASIK, so glaucoma sufferers may not be suitable candidates.

Fuchs' Dystrophy - This condition involves the deterioration of the inner surface of the cornea, causing it to become unstable.

Overly Large Pupils: Patients with overly large pupils may carry an increased risk of developing compromised night vision following LASIK.

Severe Nearsightedness: Patients with severe nearsightedness are not usually considered good LASIK candidates.

Keratoconus - Keratoconus involves the breakdown of collagen in the cornea, causing it to adopt a conical shape instead of a normal dome shape. Patients with keratoconus may not be candidates for LASIK because of corneal instability.

Autoimmune Conditions: LASIK may not be advisable for those who suffer from diseases that affect their immune system because there is an increased risk of incomplete healing and other complications.

Schedule a Consultation

LASIK can provide life-changing benefits, but only for the right candidates. The surest way to determine if you are a candidate for LASIK is to meet with a reputable ophthalmologist. Dr. Holzman will review your medical history and conduct a thorough examination in order to determine the best course of treatment for you. If you are not a LASIK candidate, you may be a candidate for other procedures that can enhance your vision. Contact our office and schedule a consultation to determine if LASIK vision correction or another treatment can help you.